How to Soothe Chronic Neck Pain
Be aware of daily habits that may be causing your chronic neck pain and replace them with healthy choices.
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Living in a world of pain? Check out the remedies in these videos.
You Will Need
- An ice pack
- Neck and shoulder exercises
- A massage
- Good posture
- A supportive bed and pillow
- Chiropractor (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Apply ice pack
Apply an ice pack to your neck for 15 to 20 minutes when symptoms occur. An ice pack will reduce the pain and any inflammation.
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Step 2
Exercise neck
Do neck exercises by keeping your head in a neutral position and looking forward, then slowly tilting your head side to side. Do five to 10 repetitions.
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Step 3
Exercise shoulder
Perform a shoulder roll exercise by relaxing your body and slowly rolling your shoulders forward in a circular motion five to 10 times, then backward five to 10 times.
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Contact your doctor if your pain is accompanied by headaches, fever, or muscle aches.
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Step 4
Get a massage
Get a massage to ease tense muscles. Take a warm shower before a massage to help relax your muscles.
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Step 5
Posture
Practice healthy posture. Stand straight and tall with your shoulders back. Stay in a neutral position without slouching.
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Some people get relief from neck pain by seeing a chiropractor and getting regular adjustments.
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Step 6
Use a supportive mattress and pillow
Sleep on a firm, supportive mattress and avoid lying on your stomach. Your pillow should also support your neck. When lying on your pillow, your spine should be straight and your neck in a neutral position.
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Did you know? Between 15 and 40 percent of whiplash victims suffer pain months after the injury occurred.
